Any suppliers which hike their prices are pulling a fast one. Ofgem says they bought most of their gas and electricity 18 months ago, but in light of all the media stories of rising prices and the falling pound, they thought, 'what the hell, we'll cash in.'

Some intend to charge based on the price of energy sold today, not at the cost they bought it for 18 months ago. Of course, they bleat on about 'internal costs' and 'hostile climates', but essentially they see an opportunity to maximise profits. They take a rap over the knuckles from the regulator, at most pay a paltry fine, and carry on.

When energy was first privatised we were told that our ability to switcheroo and shop around would regulate the market. No such thing has happened.

In truth it's a cartel with rampant price fixing, small companies going bust and being swallowed up by the big six, with a regulator about as useful as a chocolate teapot.

Energy is like water: it's essential for human life. It needs to be nationalised, democratically planned, with all incentives for profit removed. The Socialist Party fights for a socialist society, so the working class can all truly own and plan resources for everyone.